When Frank Brkich crossed the stage at the BCIT June 2025 Convocation, the moment was more that a personal milestone. It was a full-circle achievement, more than 20 years in the making.
Frank first started the Diploma in Technology at BCIT in the late 1990s. Like many learners, life took him in a different direction, and he left the program a few courses short of graduating. “At the time, I was facing some personal challenges that made it difficult to fully commit to my studies,” he shares.
“I needed to focus on areas of my life that required attention. But once things stabilized, I knew I wanted to return and finish what I had started.” He built a career that spanned sales and marketing in the telecommunications, cosmetics, and travel and tourism sectors. He launched a small business and, more recently, transitioned into the public sector working in public safety, where communication and leadership are central to the role.
Still, something felt unfinished.
“I knew I had one thing left to do in order to be complete,” Frank says. “So I made the decision to go back and finish my diploma. It wasn’t just about the credential. I wanted to challenge myself, grow, and set the stage for the next chapter of my life.”
Returning to BCIT to finish what was started
Coming back to school after 20 years is no small feat. The campus had changed. Technology had changed. The classroom dynamic was different. And yet, Frank embraced it all with humility, determination, and a learner’s mindset. Frank reached out to Morgan Westcott, Associate Dean, Marketing Management, BCIT School of Business + Media, to see what options might be available. They met in person and worked through a roadmap together. “Morgan’s support, encouragement, and leadership were truly pivotal,” Frank says. “From the very beginning, she treated my goals with respect and worked with me to create a clear plan forward. Her guidance made all the difference. She helped me stay focused and never let me forget that this was possible.”
“Frank stood out right away,” says Morgan. “He was polite, coachable, and willing to do the work. He understood the process would take time, but he stayed persistent and followed through every step of the way. It was clear he was deeply committed to finishing what he started.”
The value of a supportive network
With a combination of new coursework and recognition for previously completed courses through BCIT’s academic advising and prior learning assessment processes, Frank rejoined the program alongside the Class of 2025. “At first, I was nervous,” he shares. “But once I stepped into the classroom, it felt like coming home. I was surrounded by people who were just as focused and passionate about learning as I was. That energy kept me going.”
He also credits Daniel John, Program Head, Professional Real Estate – BCIT Marketing Management Diploma Program for creating an engaging learning environment and helping him reconnect with the material in a meaningful way. “Daniel had a way of breaking things down that made complex topics accessible. His passion for teaching reminded me why I was there in the first place.”
The experience was challenging. Frank had to relearn how to manage assignments, exams, and deadlines while balancing work and life responsibilities. There were moments of doubt, long nights, and many small hurdles. But he kept going.
“What helped me push through was remembering why I started. Every small win mattered. And I leaned on the people around me – classmates, instructors, friends, wife and three children. It reminded me that even though I was returning after many years, I wasn’t doing it alone.”
A fresh perspective and a story that inspires
Frank says one of the most meaningful parts of his return to BCIT was not just gaining new knowledge but rediscovering a part of himself. “I’ve worked for over two decades, but being back in a learning environment made me realize how much I still had to learn and how much I wanted to grow. It gave me a fresh perspective on my strengths, and it reenergized my outlook on what’s next.”
Now a proud BCIT alumnus, Frank says he’s excited to give back. He’s open to sharing his story to encourage others who may be considering a return to school, and sees opportunities to stay connected through mentorship, industry engagement, and even hiring co-op or internship students in the future. Frank is looking ahead with renewed purpose. “My goal now is to contribute to a team where I can add value and keep learning. I want to deepen my expertise and eventually help lead projects and mentor others. I feel re-energized and ready for what’s next.”
Morgan says that while Frank’s academic path was unique, his story reflects something much bigger – the determination that many adult learners bring to their education and the importance of meeting them where they are. “We can’t promise every learner that we can accommodate situations beyond the program timelines, but when someone approaches the process with thoughtfulness and persistence, we’ll do our best to explore what’s possible. Frank was a true partner in finding solutions. He brought maturity, curiosity, and a strong sense of gratitude that lifted the learning experience for everyone around him.”
To others considering a return to school, Frank has a message. “Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. Ask the question. Reach out. It’s never too late to invest in yourself. The hardest part is starting but the reward is worth every step.”
Programs to support diverse experience and learning
The BCIT School of Business + Media provides applied education and industry connections to support learners from all walks of life. While each learner’s journey is different, the shared focus remains the same: building the skills and confidence to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
